Supporters of Roe v Wade Host Vigil and Speak-Out [SLIDE SHOW]

Tallahassee, FL - January 22, 2013 - Barbara DeVane, a lobbyist for Florida National Organization for Women announces in front of a crowd of people at the Florida Capital "in this state, as in a lot of states, there is a war being waged against women on a lot of fronts." Supporters celebrated the anniversary and passage of Roe vs. Wade by hosting the 14th consecutive candlelight vigil and speak-out.

40 years ago on January 22, 1973, the US Supreme Court issued an opinion that abortion is protected by a constitutional right of privacy and prevented states from banning the practice. Tallahassee NOW President, Della Fahnestock says “the right to privacy and self determination of ones own body however, is the law of the land and we're here to celebrate that that is the case and to work to sustain it."

Anti-abortion organizations, such as Bound4Life, have held weekly prayer vigils for the past 6 years at the state capitol seeking an end to abortions. Organization representative, Jared Olsen says “a certain race, certain people weren't fully human. These aren't fully people yet". David Jacobson attended the vigil. He has 4 daughters and 2 granddaughters and says events like this send a positive message. He says “it shows that we are a very progressive community and we believe very strongly in women's rights and women's right to choose."

A recent Pew Research Center survey found that although most Americans support the court's decision, 29 percent say they would like to see Roe vs. Wade overturned. As the debate over abortion goes on, vigils like these will continue to be held both for and against the controversial issue.

By: Gina Pitisci

Tallahassee, FL, January 22, 6:24pm - 40 years ago today, the U.S. Supreme Court issued an opinion that abortion is protected by a constitutional right of privacy.

In a 7-2 ruling on January 22, 1973, justices declared laws that prohibit abortion violated a woman's constitutional right to privacy.

They also said states could regulate abortion procedures in the interest of a woman's health or in protecting a potential human life starting at the end of the pregnancy's first trimester.

Following the event tonight, the group will walk over to 101 Restaurant and Lounge where they will host their chapter meeting

By: Gina Pitisci

Tallahassee, FL, January 22, 5:30pm - Demonstrators are standing on the steps of the new Florida Capitol in downtown Tallahassee tonight where the Tallahassee National Organization for Women is holding it's 14th consecutive candlelight vigil and speak-out for the anniversary of Roe v. Wade.

So far candles are being set up for the event and people are starting to gather.

There will be featured speakers as well as an open mic to allow people to speak out their thoughts and feelings on the anniversary of the Roe versus Wade decision.

Following the vigil everyone will walk over to 101 Restaurant and Lounge in downtown Tallahassee where the organization will host their chapter meeting.

Associated Press Release

TOPEKA, Kan. (AP) -- Abortion opponents are marking the 40th anniversary of the Roe v. Wade ruling with a push for yet more restrictions after a string of legislative victories narrowing access to the procedure.

The 1973 Supreme Court decision established the right to abortion.

Hundreds of anti-abortion activists are gathering in Topeka for workshops and prayer services Tuesday. They also plan to rally outside the Kansas Statehouse featuring Gov. Sam Brownback, a Republican who signed tough, new anti-abortion laws during his first two years in office.

Much to the dismay of abortion-rights advocates, the pattern in Kansas has been repeated in other states.

Meanwhile, the anti-abortion group Kansans for Life plans to ask state lawmakers to enact legislation ensuring Kansas doesn't finance abortions, even indirectly, through tax breaks.

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